March 30, 2010

The electric utility sector is in the midst of a dramatic transformation as it faces a myriad of business and regulatory challenges, including supply and demand issues, the cost of replacing aging infrastructure, investments in renewable energy, and ever-changing environmental and regulatory requirements.  A number of progressive utilities are embracing this transition, and many seek to be agents of change with regard to reducing the energy industry’s environmental impact. 

According to a new report from Pike Research, these trends will make the utility sector a prime market opportunity for carbon management software and services.  The cleantech market intelligence firm forecasts that the global market for carbon management in the utility sector will increase from $141 million in 2010 to $788 million by 2017.  Much of this market activity will be centered in the United States, which will represent 44% of the world market by 2017.

“The utility sector represents a huge market opportunity for carbon management vendors,” says industry analyst Marianne Hedin.  “It is no coincidence that many key vendors got their start with utility customers.”  Hedin adds that utilities’ adoption of carbon management is primarily driven by regulatory compliance requirements, but other motivators include the opportunity for increased operational efficiencies as well as improved brand image. 

However, says Hedin, there are also many inhibiting factors that the U.S. utility industry faces when considering the adoption of carbon management.  The most significant barrier is an uncertain regulatory environment, especially related to the American Clean Energy and Security (ACES) Act and the climate bill that is currently stuck in the Senate.  Until the regulatory picture is clearer, many utility companies are taking a “wait and see” approach and delaying any action on carbon management.

Pike Research’s study, “Carbon Management in the U.S. Electric Utility Sector”, examines carbon management from a utility perspective, including an analysis of key business issues as well as forecasts for market growth through 2017.  In addition, Pike Research assesses the competitive landscape, including a review of major software and services vendors providing carbon management solutions to utility companies.  An Executive Summary of the report is available for free download on the firm’s website.  

Pike Research is a market research and consulting firm that provides in-depth analysis of global clean technology markets.  The company’s research methodology combines supply-side industry analysis, end-user primary research and demand assessment, and deep examination of technology trends to provide a comprehensive view of the Smart Energy, Clean Transportation, Clean Industry, Corporate Sustainability, and Building Efficiency sectors.  For more information, visit www.pikeresearch.com or call +1.303.997.9691.